Tessa Mendez
2 Guthrie Street
Letham
Forfar
DD8 2PS
View Map

I got involved with my craft in 1989, whilst still working as a nurse, as a result of doing a part time City and Guilds Course at York College, I was actually studying Machine Knitting, during which we explored other textile techniques. During this period I became intrigued by felt-making and after mastering the basics, started to explore three dimensional felt in particular bags and hats.

I later went on to take a course on Millinery, again at York College, this extended my reportoire in `hatting' and millinery techniques. I moved back to Scotland in 2006, to live and work in Angus and have been making and selling my work since settling here, at the House of Dun near Montrose and at Craft fairs.

I also run felt-making workshops and teach feltmaking and textile related topics to groups. I enjoy the aspect of sharing knowledge and experience; if I had not benefited from the expertise of others I would never have been able to develop my interest. I undertake commissions. I make a variety of items however my focus remains on hats - three-dimensional hand rolled felt hats and hats made from fabric.

I particularly enjoy the sculptural qualities that felted pieces can be moulded into. I make hats because even though they are functional they can be quite fanciful and frivolous; people have fun looking at them and trying them on and because they are all individually made one of a kind pieces, they value them for that also.

For my fabric hats I utilise ethically sourced fabrics, cleaning and recycling garments to create them, this results in no two hats ever being the same. I am a member of the International Feltmakers Association, the Guild of Weavers Spinners and Dyers and Angus Crafts Association.

My work is at the House of Dun Crafts of Angus - Showcase and Shop see above for opening times. I am involved in a new Project this Year Angus Open Studios which is planned to take place from 26th May for 5 days. see my website for details.

Photo Gallery